Snooker player Ali Carter diagnosed with lung cancer

Snooker player Ali Carter has been diagnosed with lung cancer.

The 34-year-old, who has twice finished runner-up at the World Snooker Championship, is due to undergo an intensive course of chemotherapy.

Carter, currently ranked 13th in the world, was diagnosed with testicular cancer last year before recovering to continue his career.

"Ali is the toughest competitor I know and having spoken to him over the last few days I can assure everyone he has the fight to get through the battle ahead," World Professional Billiards and Snooker Association chairman Jason Ferguson said in an official statement.

Carter has won three ranking titles since turning professional in 1996.